In loving memory of Donna M. Hyde, who peacefully passed away July 31 at the age of 78 due to a long fight with dementia. Donna was born in Deep River in 1944 and resided in Essex, where she lived a life full of love and passion.

Throughout her life, Donna shared 57 wonderful years of marriage with Strickland Kingston Hyde III. Together, they raised a loving family, and her legacy lives on through her two children, Gwendolyn Dojan (Eric) of Goose Creek, South Carolina, and Jason Hyde (Bridie) of Westbrook. Both children have families of their own, and Donna cherished her role as a grandmother to Gwendolyn’s daughters, Isabelle and Eliza, and Jason’s daughter Michaella. She also leaves her sister, Anna Klein (Richie), and sister-in-law, Carol Weed (Gary), along with a niece and three nephews. She is preceded in death by brother-in-law David Hyde (Maureen).

Donna showed a deep love of animals early in life. Her first passion was horses; from an early age, she rode ponies at Mr. Brookes’ barn, followed by spending much of her time raising and showing her own Arabian horses. Her kind-hearted nature extended to embrace all furry companions, but her dogs always got a spot on her lap. Donna’s compassionate spirit touched the hearts of humans and animals alike.

Donna took pride in her family, close friends, community, and her career as a paralegal. She spent many years serving the community as a member of the Deep River Fife and Drum Corps. She started playing the fife as an original member of “VICS Kids.” In her younger years, Donna was a cheerleader and later became a cheerleading coach at Valley Regional High School, inspiring and supporting young spirits, always being a part of the high school community.

Donna was known for her caring nature, volunteering with Essex and Deep River Ambulance Association, always ready to lend a helping hand to anyone in need. She was the driving force for organizing her high school reunions, ensuring lasting connections among her peers. Family and friends held a special place in Donna’s heart; she cherished spending summer weekends on the water sailing to Nantucket, exploring lighthouses throughout New England, or creating precious memories at the beach in Rhode Island. Her favorite time of year was fair season, especially the Fryeburg Fair in Maine which she attended annually. Her can-do attitude, smile, and laughter made her a joy to be around. For Donna, family, friends, and fun went hand-in-hand.

The family would like to thank Ocean Meadow of Clinton and Hospice for their amazing comfort and care. In lieu of flowers, please send donations to the Essex Foundation, PO Box 64, Essex, CT 06426, or www.theessexfoundation.org. A memorial service and celebration of life will be held this fall, followed by a reception and private family burial. To share a memory of Donna or send a condolence to her family, please visit www.rwwfh.com Arrangements are in the care of the Robinson, Wright & Weymer Funeral Home in Centerbrook.

Donna will be deeply missed, but her warmth, kindness, and generosity towards both humans and animals will forever be remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing her. May her soul rest in eternal peace.